This test method is intended for use in quality control, material screening, and related problem solving where a compositional analysis, or comparison to a known material, is desired.

The parameters described are guidelines and may be altered to suit the analysis of other rubber compounds.

This test method is not suitable for rubber compounds containing filler materials which decompose in the temperature range of 50°C to 800°C, for example, CaCO₃, Al(OH)₃(3H₂O), etc. Analysis of compounds containing fillers of this type requires knowledge of the filler type and some correction for mass loss.

1.1 This test method provides a thermogravimetric (TGA) technique to determine the amounts of organics (oil, polymer), carbon black and ash (filler) in a rubber compound.

1.2 The amount of plasticizer/oil may be determined separately using Test Method D 297.

1.3 This test method utilizes previously calibrated, manual or computer assisted TGA instrumentation.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.